This meta-analysis evaluated the outcomes of transanal total mesorectal excision (TaTME) versus laparoscopic TME (LaTME) for rectal cancer. Analyzing data from 22 studies comprising 5056 patients, including randomized controlled trials and prospective studies, revealed that TaTME had a lower conversion rate and better circumferential resection margin (CRM) outcomes than LaTME. There were no significant differences […]
Author: STITCHES Newsletter
Inequities in Bariatric Surgery Access for Medicaid Patients: A Program-Specific Divide
This study delves into bariatric surgery access for Medicaid patients and reveals stark disparities among programs. Involving a comprehensive data registry spanning 14 years and 43 programs, it highlights that the proportion of Medicaid cases varies significantly between institutions. Programs with more Medicaid patients treated individuals with greater disease severity but also faced longer wait […]
Persistent NIR Fluorescent Tattoos Improve Tumor Localization in Minimally Invasive Colorectal Surgery
This innovative study tackles the challenge of precisely locating tumors during minimally invasive colorectal surgery. Traditionally, blue dye has been used for preoperative marking, but it can lead to complications when spilled inside the body. The researchers introduced a new method using a near-infrared (NIR) fluorescent marker called AFS81x. In experiments on pigs, they successfully […]
Defining Quality Performance Indicators for Oesophageal Cancer Surgery
This systematic review explored existing quality performance indicators (QPIs) for the surgical management of oesophageal cancer (OC). Researchers collected data from articles, guidelines, and consensus reports. QPIs were categorized as process, outcome, or structural measures, covering aspects like multidisciplinary involvement, reoperation rates, and the role of surgical metrics. The findings provide a foundation for a […]
Pancreatic Cancer Recurrence: A Second Chance for Some
Researchers examined the post-recurrence progression in patients with resected pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and the implications for treatment. Most PDAC patients experience recurrence within two years, with varying survival outcomes depending on the site of recurrence. Lung recurrence showed significantly longer post-recurrence survival. A subset of patients with local-only recurrence, especially those with specific markers […]
Continuing Aspirin Reduces Thromboembolic Risk in Gastroenterological Surgery
Researchers conducted a multicenter study to assess the impact of continuing preoperative aspirin monotherapy in patients on antiplatelet therapy (APT) during gastroenterological surgery. The study revealed that patients who continued aspirin had significantly lower rates of thromboembolic complications compared to those who discontinued aspirin or were not on APT. These findings emphasize the importance of […]
Sham Surgery Trials: Potential Benefit for Patients
Sham-controlled randomized trials, which involve sham surgical procedures, are essential for evaluating the risks and benefits of some surgeries. This study explores the ethics of sham surgery trials and argues that patients can benefit from participating. When the procedure under study is ineffective, patients who receive the sham procedure experience fewer harms than the full […]
Frequent Recurrence in Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Arising from IPMN, with Treatment Improving Survival
An international multicenter study analyzed 459 patients who underwent pancreatic resection for adenocarcinoma originating from intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasia (IPMN). Results showed that recurrence was common, with 45.5% experiencing it, including 23.2% with early recurrence within a year. Treatment of recurrence, such as adjuvant chemotherapy and other modalities, significantly improved overall survival, with a median […]
Mixing Feedback and Compliments Boosts Suturing and Knot-Tying Skills
A study explored the impact of feedback and compliments on students’ suturing and knot-tying skills. Participants were divided into three groups: feedback, compliments, or a combination of both. The group receiving both feedback and compliments showed significant improvement in their skills, similar to the feedback-only group, while the compliments-only group didn’t improve significantly. Those who […]
Gunshot Wounds Pack a Bigger Punch Than Other Penetrating Trauma
This study delves into the impact of gunshot wounds (GSW) compared to other penetrating traumas. Researchers found that GSWs are far deadlier and complex, with higher odds of mortality compared to stab wounds. They lead to longer hospital stays, increased risk of complications like kidney injury and sepsis, and more ventilator days. Traditional injury scoring […]